The Vision of Michelle Wie West and the Future of Golf

Palm Beach Gardens
CNN

As a young girl, Michelle Wie West aspired not only to become a professional golfer but also to compete against men full-time. Despite becoming the U.S. Women’s Open champion, that dream remained unfulfilled—until recent developments hinted that mixed-gender competition may soon become a regular reality.

During a recent TGL (TMRW Golf League) event, which she co-owns with the Los Angeles Golf Club, Wie West was astounded by the innovative technology that is reshaping this classic sport.

“It’s incredible,” she said, comparing the experience to something out of ‘Back to the Future’ with futuristic flying cars. Since launching in January by Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy, and Mike McCarley, TGL features a dynamic 3-on-3 competition format in a custom-designed arena, with finals airing at 9 p.m. ET on ESPN.

In TGL, competitors aim their shots at a massive screen representing a virtual hole, transitioning to an animatronic green that can be adjusted with hydraulic technology. So far, the league has attracted significant viewership, outperforming last year’s college basketball games on ESPN.

With a youthful audience, where 42% fall into the 18-49 age demographic, TGL is positioning itself as a bright new chapter for professional golf. However, Wie West expressed her regret that women weren’t included from the start, emphasizing the potential for mixed team events that could captivate fans.

Alexis Ohanian, a co-owner of the LA Golf Club and husband of tennis star Serena Williams, echoed Wie West’s sentiments, expressing eagerness to involve female golfers soon. He highlighted the need to elevate women’s sports and indicated that he has pushed for integrating the LPGA into TGL’s future plans. As the league evolves, both players and creators are optimistic about the direction things are heading, emphasizing the game’s exciting and innovative future.